Lakshadweep and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands anchor India’s plan to expand tuna, seaweed, and ornamental fisheries.
The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying announced on Tuesday that increased investments and infrastructure development support this strategy.
Since 2015, the central government has committed Rs 39,272 crore in public investment to the fisheries sector.
Officials allocated Rs 218 crore to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and earmarked Rs 175 crore for Lakshadweep.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, authorities plan substantial investments to strengthen fisheries development across these island territories.
India’s exclusive economic zone holds an estimated marine fisheries potential of 58.6 lakh metric tonnes.
This vital sector sustains nearly 50 lakh fishers while boosting food security, nutrition, employment, income, and export earnings.
India ranks among the world’s top aquaculture producers, recording seafood exports worth around Rs 73,890 crore during FY26.
The ministry noted that the sector now evolves into a dynamic, technology-driven, and value-oriented pillar of the national economy.
The Union Budget 2025-26 previously outlined an enabling framework to sustainably harness resources from the Exclusive Economic Zone and High Seas.
This framework places special emphasis on Lakshadweep and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to access underutilised marine fish resources.
Authorities keep sustainability and scientific management at the center of this maritime expansion.
Together, both island groups account for nearly 40 percent of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
They extend India’s reach across the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, tapping rich fishing grounds and tuna routes.
Lakshadweep’s lagoons, coral reefs, and deep waters offer ideal conditions for tuna fishing, seaweed cultivation, and reef-based livelihoods.
🌐 Stay Connected with The Avenue Mail
Get the latest news and breaking updates delivered instantly to your feed.
🟢Join our WhatsApp Group: Click here to join
📢 The Avenue Mail: Your trusted source for real-time news.
